VW Amarok TDI: Boost Issues Cause Power Loss & Stalling

I had a very similar issue with my 2012 VW Transporter 2.0 TDI. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced, power loss, whistling noises, and irregular engine behavior. As someone with some experience working on turbo systems, I initially thought it was a major turbocharger failure. Took it to my regular workshop where they diagnosed a faulty connection in the turbo boost pressure sensor wiring. The turbo system was actually fine, but the sensor was sending incorrect readings to the ECU, causing the boost control to act erratically. The repair was relatively straightforward, they replaced the damaged wiring and connector to the pressure sensor, costing 95€ including diagnostic time. Before jumping to conclusions about major turbo problems, definitely get the boost pressure sensor connections checked. A boost leak test would also be worthwhile to rule out any other issues in the turbo system. To help diagnose this better, could you share: Current mileage on your Amarok, When was the last turbocharger service done, Whether the issues started suddenly or developed gradually, If you notice the problems more during cold or hot weather

I had a very similar issue with my 2012 VW Transporter 2.0 TDI. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced, power loss, whistling noises, and irregular engine behavior. As someone with some experience working on turbo systems, I initially thought it was a major turbocharger failure. Took it to my regular workshop where they diagnosed a faulty connection in the turbo boost pressure sensor wiring. The turbo system was actually fine, but the sensor was sending incorrect readings to the ECU, causing the boost control to act erratically. The repair was relatively straightforward, they replaced the damaged wiring and connector to the pressure sensor, costing 95€ including diagnostic time. Before jumping to conclusions about major turbo problems, definitely get the boost pressure sensor connections checked. A boost leak test would also be worthwhile to rule out any other issues in the turbo system. To help diagnose this better, could you share: Current mileage on your Amarok, When was the last turbocharger service done, Whether the issues started suddenly or developed gradually, If you notice the problems more during cold or hot weather

I had a very similar issue with my 2012 VW Transporter 2.0 TDI. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced, power loss, whistling noises, and irregular engine behavior. As someone with some experience working on turbo systems, I initially thought it was a major turbocharger failure. Took it to my regular workshop where they diagnosed a faulty connection in the turbo boost pressure sensor wiring. The turbo system was actually fine, but the sensor was sending incorrect readings to the ECU, causing the boost control to act erratically. The repair was relatively straightforward, they replaced the damaged wiring and connector to the pressure sensor, costing 95€ including diagnostic time. Before jumping to conclusions about major turbo problems, definitely get the boost pressure sensor connections checked. A boost leak test would also be worthwhile to rule out any other issues in the turbo system. To help diagnose this better, could you share: Current mileage on your Amarok, When was the last turbocharger service done, Whether the issues started suddenly or developed gradually, If you notice the problems more during cold or hot weather

I had a very similar issue with my 2012 VW Transporter 2.0 TDI. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced, power loss, whistling noises, and irregular engine behavior. As someone with some experience working on turbo systems, I initially thought it was a major turbocharger failure. Took it to my regular workshop where they diagnosed a faulty connection in the turbo boost pressure sensor wiring. The turbo system was actually fine, but the sensor was sending incorrect readings to the ECU, causing the boost control to act erratically. The repair was relatively straightforward, they replaced the damaged wiring and connector to the pressure sensor, costing 95€ including diagnostic time. Before jumping to conclusions about major turbo problems, definitely get the boost pressure sensor connections checked. A boost leak test would also be worthwhile to rule out any other issues in the turbo system. To help diagnose this better, could you share: Current mileage on your Amarok, When was the last turbocharger service done, Whether the issues started suddenly or developed gradually, If you notice the problems more during cold or hot weather

I had a very similar issue with my 2012 VW Transporter 2.0 TDI. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced, power loss, whistling noises, and irregular engine behavior. As someone with some experience working on turbo systems, I initially thought it was a major turbocharger failure. Took it to my regular workshop where they diagnosed a faulty connection in the turbo boost pressure sensor wiring. The turbo system was actually fine, but the sensor was sending incorrect readings to the ECU, causing the boost control to act erratically. The repair was relatively straightforward, they replaced the damaged wiring and connector to the pressure sensor, costing 95€ including diagnostic time. Before jumping to conclusions about major turbo problems, definitely get the boost pressure sensor connections checked. A boost leak test would also be worthwhile to rule out any other issues in the turbo system. To help diagnose this better, could you share: Current mileage on your Amarok, When was the last turbocharger service done, Whether the issues started suddenly or developed gradually, If you notice the problems more during cold or hot weather

I had a very similar issue with my 2012 VW Transporter 2.0 TDI. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced, power loss, whistling noises, and irregular engine behavior. As someone with some experience working on turbo systems, I initially thought it was a major turbocharger failure. Took it to my regular workshop where they diagnosed a faulty connection in the turbo boost pressure sensor wiring. The turbo system was actually fine, but the sensor was sending incorrect readings to the ECU, causing the boost control to act erratically. The repair was relatively straightforward, they replaced the damaged wiring and connector to the pressure sensor, costing 95€ including diagnostic time. Before jumping to conclusions about major turbo problems, definitely get the boost pressure sensor connections checked. A boost leak test would also be worthwhile to rule out any other issues in the turbo system. To help diagnose this better, could you share: Current mileage on your Amarok, When was the last turbocharger service done, Whether the issues started suddenly or developed gradually, If you notice the problems more during cold or hot weather

I had a very similar issue with my 2012 VW Transporter 2.0 TDI. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced, power loss, whistling noises, and irregular engine behavior. As someone with some experience working on turbo systems, I initially thought it was a major turbocharger failure. Took it to my regular workshop where they diagnosed a faulty connection in the turbo boost pressure sensor wiring. The turbo system was actually fine, but the sensor was sending incorrect readings to the ECU, causing the boost control to act erratically. The repair was relatively straightforward, they replaced the damaged wiring and connector to the pressure sensor, costing 95€ including diagnostic time. Before jumping to conclusions about major turbo problems, definitely get the boost pressure sensor connections checked. A boost leak test would also be worthwhile to rule out any other issues in the turbo system. To help diagnose this better, could you share: Current mileage on your Amarok, When was the last turbocharger service done, Whether the issues started suddenly or developed gradually, If you notice the problems more during cold or hot weather

Last service done at 85000km, two months ago, when they changed filters and did full inspection. Really appreciate the detailed response about the pressure sensor wiring. The timing makes sense because my issues started right after hitting a deep pothole. The engine light came on immediately after and boost issues followed. The whistling sound gets worse when accelerating uphill. I checked under the hood and noticed the boost sensor connector looks a bit loose and has some corrosion. Will get it checked properly since a 95€ fix sounds much better than replacing the whole turbo system. Could you share more details about the boost leak test you mentioned? Wondering if this is something that can be done at home or needs special workshop equipment.

Last service done at 85000km, two months ago, when they changed filters and did full inspection. Really appreciate the detailed response about the pressure sensor wiring. The timing makes sense because my issues started right after hitting a deep pothole. The engine light came on immediately after and boost issues followed. The whistling sound gets worse when accelerating uphill. I checked under the hood and noticed the boost sensor connector looks a bit loose and has some corrosion. Will get it checked properly since a 95€ fix sounds much better than replacing the whole turbo system. Could you share more details about the boost leak test you mentioned? Wondering if this is something that can be done at home or needs special workshop equipment.

Last service done at 85000km, two months ago, when they changed filters and did full inspection. Really appreciate the detailed response about the pressure sensor wiring. The timing makes sense because my issues started right after hitting a deep pothole. The engine light came on immediately after and boost issues followed. The whistling sound gets worse when accelerating uphill. I checked under the hood and noticed the boost sensor connector looks a bit loose and has some corrosion. Will get it checked properly since a 95€ fix sounds much better than replacing the whole turbo system. Could you share more details about the boost leak test you mentioned? Wondering if this is something that can be done at home or needs special workshop equipment.

Last service done at 85000km, two months ago, when they changed filters and did full inspection. Really appreciate the detailed response about the pressure sensor wiring. The timing makes sense because my issues started right after hitting a deep pothole. The engine light came on immediately after and boost issues followed. The whistling sound gets worse when accelerating uphill. I checked under the hood and noticed the boost sensor connector looks a bit loose and has some corrosion. Will get it checked properly since a 95€ fix sounds much better than replacing the whole turbo system. Could you share more details about the boost leak test you mentioned? Wondering if this is something that can be done at home or needs special workshop equipment.

Last service done at 85000km, two months ago, when they changed filters and did full inspection. Really appreciate the detailed response about the pressure sensor wiring. The timing makes sense because my issues started right after hitting a deep pothole. The engine light came on immediately after and boost issues followed. The whistling sound gets worse when accelerating uphill. I checked under the hood and noticed the boost sensor connector looks a bit loose and has some corrosion. Will get it checked properly since a 95€ fix sounds much better than replacing the whole turbo system. Could you share more details about the boost leak test you mentioned? Wondering if this is something that can be done at home or needs special workshop equipment.

Last service done at 85000km, two months ago, when they changed filters and did full inspection. Really appreciate the detailed response about the pressure sensor wiring. The timing makes sense because my issues started right after hitting a deep pothole. The engine light came on immediately after and boost issues followed. The whistling sound gets worse when accelerating uphill. I checked under the hood and noticed the boost sensor connector looks a bit loose and has some corrosion. Will get it checked properly since a 95€ fix sounds much better than replacing the whole turbo system. Could you share more details about the boost leak test you mentioned? Wondering if this is something that can be done at home or needs special workshop equipment.

Last service done at 85000km, two months ago, when they changed filters and did full inspection. Really appreciate the detailed response about the pressure sensor wiring. The timing makes sense because my issues started right after hitting a deep pothole. The engine light came on immediately after and boost issues followed. The whistling sound gets worse when accelerating uphill. I checked under the hood and noticed the boost sensor connector looks a bit loose and has some corrosion. Will get it checked properly since a 95€ fix sounds much better than replacing the whole turbo system. Could you share more details about the boost leak test you mentioned? Wondering if this is something that can be done at home or needs special workshop equipment.

Thanks for the follow-up. That pothole impact definitely explains a lot, it can easily damage or loosen turbo system components. The corroded and loose connector you found on the boost pressure sensor is likely the culprit, especially since the problems started immediately after the impact. In my case, the boost leak test revealed the wiring issue quickly. While some experienced DIYers do boost leak tests at home, I recommend getting it done professionally since the intake manifold and turbocharger system are complex on these engines. The workshop used specialized equipment to pressurize the system and detect any escaping air with smoke testing. After fixing my sensor wiring, they also checked the entire boost system for other damage, as impacts can sometimes create multiple issues. They found a small boost leak at one of the intercooler connections, which they fixed during the same visit. Total cost including both repairs stayed under 150€. The whistling getting worse uphill is classic boost control behavior when the pressure sensor sends incorrect readings to the ECU. Once fixed, the engine power should return to normal and those noises should disappear completely. Would strongly suggest having it checked soon, as running with incorrect boost pressure can lead to poor fuel economy and potential engine damage if left unchecked.

Thanks for the follow-up. That pothole impact definitely explains a lot, it can easily damage or loosen turbo system components. The corroded and loose connector you found on the boost pressure sensor is likely the culprit, especially since the problems started immediately after the impact. In my case, the boost leak test revealed the wiring issue quickly. While some experienced DIYers do boost leak tests at home, I recommend getting it done professionally since the intake manifold and turbocharger system are complex on these engines. The workshop used specialized equipment to pressurize the system and detect any escaping air with smoke testing. After fixing my sensor wiring, they also checked the entire boost system for other damage, as impacts can sometimes create multiple issues. They found a small boost leak at one of the intercooler connections, which they fixed during the same visit. Total cost including both repairs stayed under 150€. The whistling getting worse uphill is classic boost control behavior when the pressure sensor sends incorrect readings to the ECU. Once fixed, the engine power should return to normal and those noises should disappear completely. Would strongly suggest having it checked soon, as running with incorrect boost pressure can lead to poor fuel economy and potential engine damage if left unchecked.

Thanks for the follow-up. That pothole impact definitely explains a lot, it can easily damage or loosen turbo system components. The corroded and loose connector you found on the boost pressure sensor is likely the culprit, especially since the problems started immediately after the impact. In my case, the boost leak test revealed the wiring issue quickly. While some experienced DIYers do boost leak tests at home, I recommend getting it done professionally since the intake manifold and turbocharger system are complex on these engines. The workshop used specialized equipment to pressurize the system and detect any escaping air with smoke testing. After fixing my sensor wiring, they also checked the entire boost system for other damage, as impacts can sometimes create multiple issues. They found a small boost leak at one of the intercooler connections, which they fixed during the same visit. Total cost including both repairs stayed under 150€. The whistling getting worse uphill is classic boost control behavior when the pressure sensor sends incorrect readings to the ECU. Once fixed, the engine power should return to normal and those noises should disappear completely. Would strongly suggest having it checked soon, as running with incorrect boost pressure can lead to poor fuel economy and potential engine damage if left unchecked.

Thanks for the follow-up. That pothole impact definitely explains a lot, it can easily damage or loosen turbo system components. The corroded and loose connector you found on the boost pressure sensor is likely the culprit, especially since the problems started immediately after the impact. In my case, the boost leak test revealed the wiring issue quickly. While some experienced DIYers do boost leak tests at home, I recommend getting it done professionally since the intake manifold and turbocharger system are complex on these engines. The workshop used specialized equipment to pressurize the system and detect any escaping air with smoke testing. After fixing my sensor wiring, they also checked the entire boost system for other damage, as impacts can sometimes create multiple issues. They found a small boost leak at one of the intercooler connections, which they fixed during the same visit. Total cost including both repairs stayed under 150€. The whistling getting worse uphill is classic boost control behavior when the pressure sensor sends incorrect readings to the ECU. Once fixed, the engine power should return to normal and those noises should disappear completely. Would strongly suggest having it checked soon, as running with incorrect boost pressure can lead to poor fuel economy and potential engine damage if left unchecked.

Thanks for the follow-up. That pothole impact definitely explains a lot, it can easily damage or loosen turbo system components. The corroded and loose connector you found on the boost pressure sensor is likely the culprit, especially since the problems started immediately after the impact. In my case, the boost leak test revealed the wiring issue quickly. While some experienced DIYers do boost leak tests at home, I recommend getting it done professionally since the intake manifold and turbocharger system are complex on these engines. The workshop used specialized equipment to pressurize the system and detect any escaping air with smoke testing. After fixing my sensor wiring, they also checked the entire boost system for other damage, as impacts can sometimes create multiple issues. They found a small boost leak at one of the intercooler connections, which they fixed during the same visit. Total cost including both repairs stayed under 150€. The whistling getting worse uphill is classic boost control behavior when the pressure sensor sends incorrect readings to the ECU. Once fixed, the engine power should return to normal and those noises should disappear completely. Would strongly suggest having it checked soon, as running with incorrect boost pressure can lead to poor fuel economy and potential engine damage if left unchecked.

Thanks for the follow-up. That pothole impact definitely explains a lot, it can easily damage or loosen turbo system components. The corroded and loose connector you found on the boost pressure sensor is likely the culprit, especially since the problems started immediately after the impact. In my case, the boost leak test revealed the wiring issue quickly. While some experienced DIYers do boost leak tests at home, I recommend getting it done professionally since the intake manifold and turbocharger system are complex on these engines. The workshop used specialized equipment to pressurize the system and detect any escaping air with smoke testing. After fixing my sensor wiring, they also checked the entire boost system for other damage, as impacts can sometimes create multiple issues. They found a small boost leak at one of the intercooler connections, which they fixed during the same visit. Total cost including both repairs stayed under 150€. The whistling getting worse uphill is classic boost control behavior when the pressure sensor sends incorrect readings to the ECU. Once fixed, the engine power should return to normal and those noises should disappear completely. Would strongly suggest having it checked soon, as running with incorrect boost pressure can lead to poor fuel economy and potential engine damage if left unchecked.

Thanks for the follow-up. That pothole impact definitely explains a lot, it can easily damage or loosen turbo system components. The corroded and loose connector you found on the boost pressure sensor is likely the culprit, especially since the problems started immediately after the impact. In my case, the boost leak test revealed the wiring issue quickly. While some experienced DIYers do boost leak tests at home, I recommend getting it done professionally since the intake manifold and turbocharger system are complex on these engines. The workshop used specialized equipment to pressurize the system and detect any escaping air with smoke testing. After fixing my sensor wiring, they also checked the entire boost system for other damage, as impacts can sometimes create multiple issues. They found a small boost leak at one of the intercooler connections, which they fixed during the same visit. Total cost including both repairs stayed under 150€. The whistling getting worse uphill is classic boost control behavior when the pressure sensor sends incorrect readings to the ECU. Once fixed, the engine power should return to normal and those noises should disappear completely. Would strongly suggest having it checked soon, as running with incorrect boost pressure can lead to poor fuel economy and potential engine damage if left unchecked.

Based on all that info, will definitely book it in next week to get the boost pressure sensor and connections checked first. Your experience really helped narrow down the likely cause, especially since my symptoms match what you described. Makes total sense about the pothole impact causing the connector damage. The air intake and turbo system on these engines seems more complex than I thought, so will let the professionals handle the boost leak test rather than attempting it myself. If they can fix it for around 150€ like in your case, that would be fantastic compared to turbo replacement costs. Going to have them check all the intake manifold connections while they are at it, just to be thorough. Will update the forum once I get the final diagnosis and repair completed. Thanks again for walking me through your experience with such detail.

Based on all that info, will definitely book it in next week to get the boost pressure sensor and connections checked first. Your experience really helped narrow down the likely cause, especially since my symptoms match what you described. Makes total sense about the pothole impact causing the connector damage. The air intake and turbo system on these engines seems more complex than I thought, so will let the professionals handle the boost leak test rather than attempting it myself. If they can fix it for around 150€ like in your case, that would be fantastic compared to turbo replacement costs. Going to have them check all the intake manifold connections while they are at it, just to be thorough. Will update the forum once I get the final diagnosis and repair completed. Thanks again for walking me through your experience with such detail.

Based on all that info, will definitely book it in next week to get the boost pressure sensor and connections checked first. Your experience really helped narrow down the likely cause, especially since my symptoms match what you described. Makes total sense about the pothole impact causing the connector damage. The air intake and turbo system on these engines seems more complex than I thought, so will let the professionals handle the boost leak test rather than attempting it myself. If they can fix it for around 150€ like in your case, that would be fantastic compared to turbo replacement costs. Going to have them check all the intake manifold connections while they are at it, just to be thorough. Will update the forum once I get the final diagnosis and repair completed. Thanks again for walking me through your experience with such detail.

Based on all that info, will definitely book it in next week to get the boost pressure sensor and connections checked first. Your experience really helped narrow down the likely cause, especially since my symptoms match what you described. Makes total sense about the pothole impact causing the connector damage. The air intake and turbo system on these engines seems more complex than I thought, so will let the professionals handle the boost leak test rather than attempting it myself. If they can fix it for around 150€ like in your case, that would be fantastic compared to turbo replacement costs. Going to have them check all the intake manifold connections while they are at it, just to be thorough. Will update the forum once I get the final diagnosis and repair completed. Thanks again for walking me through your experience with such detail.

Based on all that info, will definitely book it in next week to get the boost pressure sensor and connections checked first. Your experience really helped narrow down the likely cause, especially since my symptoms match what you described. Makes total sense about the pothole impact causing the connector damage. The air intake and turbo system on these engines seems more complex than I thought, so will let the professionals handle the boost leak test rather than attempting it myself. If they can fix it for around 150€ like in your case, that would be fantastic compared to turbo replacement costs. Going to have them check all the intake manifold connections while they are at it, just to be thorough. Will update the forum once I get the final diagnosis and repair completed. Thanks again for walking me through your experience with such detail.

Based on all that info, will definitely book it in next week to get the boost pressure sensor and connections checked first. Your experience really helped narrow down the likely cause, especially since my symptoms match what you described. Makes total sense about the pothole impact causing the connector damage. The air intake and turbo system on these engines seems more complex than I thought, so will let the professionals handle the boost leak test rather than attempting it myself. If they can fix it for around 150€ like in your case, that would be fantastic compared to turbo replacement costs. Going to have them check all the intake manifold connections while they are at it, just to be thorough. Will update the forum once I get the final diagnosis and repair completed. Thanks again for walking me through your experience with such detail.

Based on all that info, will definitely book it in next week to get the boost pressure sensor and connections checked first. Your experience really helped narrow down the likely cause, especially since my symptoms match what you described. Makes total sense about the pothole impact causing the connector damage. The air intake and turbo system on these engines seems more complex than I thought, so will let the professionals handle the boost leak test rather than attempting it myself. If they can fix it for around 150€ like in your case, that would be fantastic compared to turbo replacement costs. Going to have them check all the intake manifold connections while they are at it, just to be thorough. Will update the forum once I get the final diagnosis and repair completed. Thanks again for walking me through your experience with such detail.